the Project stats
26,800sf
Construction Manager
WTA Architects
LEARN / WORK / PLAY
the Project study
To improve experiences and accommodations for the 200,000 annual guests visiting to the Dow Gardens 110 acre Estate, the current 6,600sf visitor center will be demolished and replaced with a brand new 20,200sf welcome center.
The new welcome center will house a cafe and kitchen, offering food and drinks for guests to enjoy in the new indoor/outdoor seating areas, as well as improved wedding/group spaces for events hosted through Dow Gardens. The new welcome center will also include an improved gift shop, exhibit space, ticketing and sales space, lobby, and a hidden garden adjacent to the building.
Administrative and support spaces include offices, multiple receiving/storage rooms, and multiple restrooms throughout the building.
Landscaping to the entrance area will also be reworked in order to create an arrival and entry sequence to the new welcome center that is comfortable and intuitive year-round, giving visitors a brief glimpse of the unique wonders they can expect to see as they walk the estate.
Originally established in 1899, as a home for Herbert H. & Grace A. Dow and family, the Dow Gardens Estate became a signature gift to the community from the Herbert H. & Grace A. Dow Foundation. Comprised of an Estate Garden, Exploration Garden, and Forest, guests are encouraged to explore the uniquely-designed landscape, tour the historic Pines Home, participate in hands-on educational programs, and discover beautiful art and music in a relaxing botanical setting.